LEWIS | Williams returns to U of L backfield; Wilson out after injury

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) – University of Louisville head coach Bobby Petrino is excited about the reemergence of senior running back Malik Williams after losing him to an MCL injury in last year’s regular season finale loss to Kentucky.

“He was just getting in a position where he understood where he understood the offense. He was making plays,” Petrino said of the juco transfer’s progress last year. Petrino says Williams is back to form and that was evident in a recent practice.

“Malik really did a great job running the football, broke tackles, got yards after contact. It was great to see.”

Williams was more productive on special teams last season returning kicks. On offense, he rushed 19 times for 145 yards and a touchdown. Williams has an opportunity to improve upon those numbers this season.

“I’m in better shape. I’ve been working out a lot,” Williams said. “I was still learning last year and now I feel like I really have it. I know the plays a lot more.”

Williams is part of a strong backfield that includes seniors Reggie Bonnafon and Jeremy Smith. True freshman running back Colin Wilson is sidelined for an undetermined amount of time after breaking a bone in his hand in practice. The four-star recruit had surgery Tuesday to insert a plate in his hand.

Louisville begins the season September 2nd against Purdue at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. The game will be broadcast live on WDRB.